Sexual intimacy can be a powerful source of connection in marriage, but shame, avoidance, unrealistic expectations, and differences in desire can quickly create distance. Licensed professional counselor and certified sex therapist Vanessa Cushing joins Dave and Liz to discuss desire discrepancy, performance anxiety, pornography, sexual trauma, and the importance of honest communication. Learn how couples can stop blaming each other, build emotional safety, and approach sexual intimacy as a team focused on connection rather than performance.
The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission.
Takeaway of the Day
Vanessa Cushing: Talk to each other and stop blaming each other. Desire and intimacy improve when couples have hard conversations, approach challenges as a team, and consistently do the small things that strengthen connection.
Liz Hale: Desire is a team effort. Sexual challenges are not simply one partner's problem, and understanding the deeper emotional or psychological factors behind sexual behaviors can help couples respond with greater compassion.
Dave Schramm: Safety and connection are foundational to healthy sexual intimacy. Couples can strengthen their relationship by communicating openly, being vulnerable, and seeking professional help when challenges feel difficult to resolve alone.
Vanessa’s Resources:
Website: https://www.cushingcounseling.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cushingcounseling/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vanessacushing
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cushingcounseling
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Cushing-Counseling/61578982936946/
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The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission.
Visit our site for FREE relationship resources and regular giveaways:
Strongermarriage.org
Podcast.stongermarriage.org
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StrongerMarriageLife
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strongermarriagelife
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongermarriagelife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strongermarriage/
Facebook Marriage Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/770019130329579
Dr. Dave Schramm:
http://drdaveschramm.com
http://drdavespeaks.com
Dr. Liz Hale:
http://www.drlizhale.com/
